Our research focuses on developing and applying the proximity ligation assay (PLA), a versatile tool for protein analyses. The technology allows detection of extremely low levels of proteins in different biological matrices. In addition, with the PLA both protein-protein interactions and post-translational modifications can be analysed with high specificity. The characteristic PLA qualities are the requirement of multi-recognition events to generate signals, and possibility to amplify the obtained signals. Together this provides high specificity and sensitivity.

We apply the PLA for screening of proteins for prognostics or early diagnostics of different diseases. We also analyse proteins, their modifications and interactions, to better understand the emergence of theses diseases. Our primary research is focused on neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and prion diseases, and on cancer diseases, for instance prostate cancer.